Ask Fred > Family > How do I deal with a competitive friend?
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Dear Fred
I feel I've recently been blessed with a new Christian friend. We have been able to serve one another and have many things in common. However, over the past 1 1/2 years I increasingly feel that she is competing with me in everything I do. I don't consider myself competitive only perhaps in sports (which I don't participate in now)and others who know me would affirm that I'm not competitive. How do I handle this? It's uncomfortable but I do want to help her in what may be a weakness.
Fred's Response
Competitiveness is not necessarily a weakness. One of my closest friends felt that arguing brought out your best thinking. So we argued a lot even while telling others we were great friends. What disadvantages are there for her being competitive if only that she bests you? Why not anticipate the areas she will compete and tell her in advance that you know she will compete. I think this might slow the competition down. Don’t let her competitiveness influence you adversely.
